Back to School Project

The Back to School Project in Tehama County, which aims to send children to school with new clothes, shoes and a backpack, will hold its 10th annual shopping event Saturday at Walmart.

Started in 2004 by the project's director, Kim Berry, the Back to School Project has aided more than 2,000 children over the years.

?I used to be a single parent, and I could never buy my kids school clothes,? Berry said.

On two occasions Berry received anonymous donations of $100, which went to clothes and school supplies.

As time passed and her financial situation stabilized, Berry said she felt she was supposed to raise money for single-parent families, like someone had done for her.

Twelve years ago she said she wanted to start a fundraising project, but shelved the idea because she was afraid. The next year, the same kind of ache came around, but nothing came to fruition.

Then 10 years ago she spoke with her pastor, who said if she even helped five children, it would be worth it.

The project started with funding for 18 children in its first year, Berry said, and has grown ever since.

The non-profit project serves children in financial need, and has funding for 284 out of the 417 children who have applied for help this year.

The project determines its recipients, who each receive $100 in funding, by those with the greatest financial need.

Berry said for many kids, it's the only new clothes they'll receive all year.

?People don't realize the level of poverty that is here,? she said. ?The number of families that are in need.?

She added: ?Every year there's always somebody that has to put their shoes on right there,? Berry said. ?It's very powerful.?

The Back to School Project, which is routinely held on the second Saturday in August, raises funds throughout the year and is helped by the community as well.

On Sunday, the project will hold a Cuts For Kids from event 2-6 p.m. at the Red Bluff Community and Senior Center, 1500 S. Jackson St. The event, which provides free haircuts, is open to any school-aged child.

Studio 530 will be providing free photos and new to the event will be free eye exams performed by Dr. Aurora Barriga, a local optometrist.

Free lenses and glasses will be given to those with the greatest need.

Free dental screenings will be available, and children can walk away with free toothbrushes.

Live music will be performed and free hot dogs and tacos will be available.

?It's quite a community project,? said Berry, who added that while the project receives some grants, the bulk of the fundraising comes in from community members.

--------- Andre Byik can be reached at 527-2151, ext. 111 or at sports@redbluffdailynews.com. Follow him on Twitter: @TehamaSports